For years, people dreamed that science would one day create a pill to cure all ills.
Today, one small pill may not cure everything, but it holds the potential to transform cognitive medicine by addressing debilitating conditions like depression and Alzheimer’s.
This is the promise of Xanamem, a breakthrough from Actinogen Medical (ASX:ACW) that could improve the lives of millions in Australia and around the world.
Depression and Alzheimer’s are among the most widespread mental health challenges in Australia, affecting countless individuals and families. Decades of research has highlighted a link between these conditions and cortisol—a hormone related to stress.
Actinogen’s Xanamem is the first medication that can control brain tissue cortisol without affecting normal levels of cortisol needed in the rest of the body.
Xanamem provides a novel approach to managing depression, known as the “black dog,” and for slowing Alzheimer’s progression.
The statistics underscore the need for such a solution.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reports that nearly 20% of Australians have experienced depression—more than 5 million people in a population of 26.7 million. Alzheimer’s also has a profound impact; Health Direct notes that 1 in 10 Australians over 65 are affected, with this number set to rise as the population ages.
Actinogen’s clinical trial for Xanamem, now underway in Australia and the United States, is enrolling 220 patients with Alzheimer’s. In prior trials, the drug has shown promising effects in patients with Alzheimer’s and those with moderately severe depression and a promising safety profile.
Actinogen’s CEO Dr Steve Gourlay believes the simplicity of Xanamem’s once-daily oral dose is a major advantage, especially for Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers who may find infusion therapy with new antibody drugs challenging.
Data gathered so far strongly supports the theory that cortisol management could be effective for a number of serious diseases.
Actinogen recently raised $11 million, with Gourlay contributing $1 million personally, demonstrating strong confidence from leadership and investors alike.
With another $9 million just received from an R&D tax rebate, Actinogen has nearly $25 million on hand, ensuring operations are funded through mid-2026.
The breakthrough here is significant: Xanamem could reshape how we approach Alzheimer’s—and potentially reflect a “Holy Grail”, on its own or as combination therapy, that scientists have been looking for.
Disclaimer: Actinogen contributed content for this article.